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7 Curious Key West Fun Facts
It’s easy to see why there are Key West fun facts. This Southernmost island in Florida, United States, is home to many exciting things. The place has exquisite sceneries, intriguing chronicles, and ample activities. Folks visit and even frequent it since it’s a spot where there is something for everyone. Whether relaxation or adventure, the best beaches in Key West, or city life is what you’re after, Key West has your back. So it’s an excellent tourist destination that is worth knowing about. This getaway spot offers more than daytime and nightlife activities, coastlines, and architecture, So, you must visit key west.
Many fun facts exist about the top Key West things to do and its developed city in the west. This post includes names of notable Key West residents and locations. It also covers some unique native customs and biodiversity the place offers. Here are seven fascinating points about the beautiful island city. Let’s get exploring.
Key West Fun Facts To Know
If you’re looking for a fun and quirky vacation destination, look no further than Key West. With a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant culture, there’s always something exciting to discover here. Whether you’re eager to explore the historic sites or simply relax on the picturesque beaches, a visit to Key West promises an unforgettable experience steeped in both adventure and heritage.
1. There Are Likely More Chickens Than Humans in the City.
First-time city travelers may be surprised to see that roosters and hens are free to roam. It’s one of the Key West facts that tourists and natives may find curious and annoying. Because of their number, the locals even call these feral fowl gypsy chickens. A municipal ordinance protects them from harm. So seeing these animals in the streets, alleys, and other places is common.
There are more chickens than human beings in key west
Although some are annoying to have them around, they are there to stay. Thus there will always be chickens and sometimes chicks on the pavements in Key West. Besides, folks believe that the early Cuban settlers from the Caribbean brought them. They had a good relationship with these animals, using them for food and sport. The local wildlife center lends chicken traps to people to protect the feral fowl. That is to catch them, get them away from predatory hawks, and use them for pest control on the mainland.
2. It’s Where the Third Largest Coral Reef in the World Is.
One interesting Key West fun fact is that the city has the Great Florida Reef. It’s near the city, extending over 300 miles from Martin County to the Gulf of Mexico. This spot has about 50 species of coral formations with marine sponges and more. The NOAA, or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, consider it a marine sanctuary. The organization takes care of it, and the nature reserve is home to thousands of marine species. Aside from its distinctive marine habitats, it’s even where some famous spots are. So it makes for an excellent hotspot for tourists fond of sea exploration.
fishes swimming through Florida reef in Key west
It comes after the Mesoamerican Reef in the Caribbean Sea, stretching 700 miles. Also, it is behind Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. But it is remarkable that there are no more natural coral reefs in the continental US other than it. Thus travelers likely enjoy the water due to its large marine plants and animals. It is no surprise why people include this as one of the fun facts about the Florida Keys.
3. The Host of Ghost Stories Makes Amazing Key West Fun Facts.
This isn’t to confirm nor deny that spirits or paranormal events are real or otherwise. It’s only that the number of supernatural stories about the city is one of the fun facts about the Florida Keys. An example would be Robert the Doll, located at the East Martello Museum. Folks claim the toy moves, giggles, and changes its facial expressions. Also, they say that visiting the doll causes all sorts of misfortunes to happen.
Another thing that Key West has is the Ghost & Gravestones tours. It involves visiting known haunted sites while listening to spooky tales. So the place is appealing to travelers seeking mysteries.
Key west is a host to ghost stories
European travelers who came to the island long ago found human bones in the open. Thus it is clear why they named the place Bone Island. Aside from that, many horror stories remain about abandoned homes in the city. Even paranormal experts like David Sloan live in the area and hunt ghosts for a living. These are some Key West facts that relate to the supernatural.
4. Centuries Ago, Locals Used to Live off Shipwrecked Goods.
Marine salvage was joint in this part of Florida back then, and it’s another example of the many Key West fun facts. Before the 1800s, folks used to wait for ships to sink and loot them. Later, auctioning happened once Key West became part of the US. So, folks decided to auction the salvaged goods of shipwrecked vessels for order. So, back then, saving people from drowning and reclaiming cargo was profitable. It was very lucrative for some folks to relocate to this part of Florida.
cayo Hueso museum
Because of the harsh weather and waters before, shipwrecks were common. There were a lot of incidences that auctioning became so frequent. With the continuing wrecking of ships and cargo salvaging, some became wealthy. The reefs and shallow waters made the place one of the richest in America. In due course, the wrecking courts ended in 1921 due to modernization. People now visit the Key West Museum to experience the maritime legacy of the place.
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5. Many Key West Facts Relate to Ernest Hemingway.
Mr. Hemingway, who passed on July 2, 1961, was a city resident. He was a famous writer known for some of his written works and how he wrote. Aside from his creations and technique, people are interested in his house. It has the first in-ground swimming pool in Key West and several polydactyl cats. So it’s understandable why many continue to visit his former abode.
Hemingway Home and museum
Also, Hemingway insisted on naming a famous bar in the city Sloppy Joe’s. It was where he had some alcohol back in the 1930s, operated by John Russel. Back to his home and part of his life, among the many things he loved about Key West, is fishing in the waters. That would be on board his 38-foot boat named Pilar. Still, his former house displays designs that bring memories of when he was alive. Thus, folks check the things associated with him when visiting Florida.
6. It’s Usually Sunny in Key West.
One of the peculiar yet fun facts about the Florida Keys is that it’s sunny for the most part. In particular, Key West gets about 260 days of pure sunshine throughout the year. It’s considered one of the warmest places in Florida and even America. The temperature is often 18 to 31 degrees Celcius or 65 to 89 degrees Fahrenheit. Though uncommon, it does get colder or warmer on some days. In that way, the place makes a great tourist hotspot for summer vacations.
sunshine in key west
Another example of the Key West fun facts is that the island becomes crowded. That would be despite its population of only more or less 25,000 people. During wintertime, likely because of the warmth of the place, tourists visit the city. So it makes sense why many recommend visiting the island during the summer to avoid many people.
7. Home to Many Creative Minds.
One more case of the Key West fun facts is that the city has several creative celebrities. Judy Blume, a writer of several narratives about teenagers and coming of age, is also a resident of Key West. She wrote books about various strange topics. There’s one about finding religious identity, being an offspring of interfaith marriage. Another one is about sibling rivalry in kids and dealing with it. The singer and songwriter Michael MacCloud also live on the island. People know him for his distinctive voice, imaginative songs, and narratives. He’s good at playing guitar in different styles and genres. Thus Ernest Hemingway is one of many famous who associated with Key West.
comedy club at crucial west
Speaking of creativity, the city also has local comedians. These folks are some of those who think fast and deliver the funniest bits. Another sample of the fun facts about the Florida Keys is the nature of the Comedy Key West. That’s because it’s the only comedy club in the Florida island chain. Usually, in places like New York City, there’s often more than one comic factory. In this way, the island having one of it only is one of the interesting Key West facts.
In Conclusion
There are strange and quirky Key West fun facts that make the island city awesome, like the best beaches in Key West. The article mentioned it’s home to protected feral fowl and famous personalities. It holds supernatural and historical stories and is near one of the most extensive coral reefs. Of course, the place is where nature provides comfort and sights to see. With the things it can offer travelers, it is no wonder why people consider it one of the most unique places ever. We hope you’ve learned some new things about this part of Florida through our write-up. You can try to visit the place yourself if you get the chance. You might find the fun you’re after there.
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FAQs
What makes Key West different from other tourist destinations?
Key West is a unique tropical island city with a rich history and vibrant culture that sets it apart from other tourist destinations. Its quirky traditions, such as the nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square, and its famous residents, like Ernest Hemingway, make Key West an exciting and unforgettable place to visit. Plus, with its stunning natural beauty, from its crystal-clear waters to its lush vegetation, Key West offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Are there any must-see attractions in Key West?
Absolutely! Key West is home to a plethora of unique attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Some must-see attractions include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where you can see the famous writer’s former residence and meet his six-toed cats, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, where you can walk among hundreds of free-flying butterflies in a lush, tropical garden. Other popular attractions include the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, the Southernmost Point Buoy, and the Key West Aquarium.
Is there anything unusual about the culture in Key West?
Yes, Key West has a vibrant and unique culture unlike anywhere else. From the colorful characters that call the island home to its quirky traditions and celebrations, Key West is full of surprises. For example, the annual Hemingway Days Festival, held every July, celebrates the life and works of Ernest Hemingway with events such as the Hemingway Look-Alike Contest and the Running of the Bulls. Key West has a long history of being a welcoming and inclusive community, with a thriving LGBTQ scene and a deep appreciation for diversity and individuality.